Hockey Superstition Question

[la_samtyr]

Ok, I know that players are not supposed to touch the Cup or even acknowlege it should they happen to be in the same place it is being displayed until they have won it. But--just when does the superstition begin for them? When they begin playing in the NHL? Minors? Junior hockey? Major junior? Or when? I'm assuming that very small children (like under 4-5) and babies are exempt, since it has been used as a baptismal font. But I haven't been able to find out anything specific. I do know that Ferraro refused to touch it even now, and he's retired so it must continue even after a player retires. Any ideas?

EDIT: I agree with both of you.

Comments

[crazies.livejournal.com]

I think it depends on the person. I know of some fans who, despite that they will never be NHL players, refuse to touch the Cup if they happen to encounter it. And I know that Jordan Staal refused to touch it last summer when Eric had it home and he hadn't yet played an NHL game.

I think that once a person learns of it and believes in it then they abide by it.

I know I'd never touch it, lol.

[sxeraven.livejournal.com]

note my comment below... though I think you already knew that I'm one of those fans who'd never touch it. I *heart* Jordan.

[sxeraven.livejournal.com]

I'm not sure... but I know that I refuse to touch it too, and I'm a woman who doesn't play hockey. I'm not sure where it started, or how, but I know that I won't touch the Cup unless I'm like... dating or married to a hockey player who wins it. Which is an event which has extremely slim to absolutely fucking nil chance of ever happening, so I will never touch the Stanley Cup.

I think its out of respect, just... that cup is a symbol of blood spilled and bones broken and pain overcome and worked past, it's a symbol of hard work, dedication, heart, soul and passion. It is all of those things, and unless you have sacrificed for it, you have no right to touch it.

[crazies.livejournal.com]

I agree with you whole-heartedly.

[sxeraven.livejournal.com]

*hugs* I know you would. :)